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Hello! 👋
Here is my review of visiting the Yeongildae Sand Festival at Yeongildae Beach in Pohang with my kids!
While taking a family road trip along Route 7 (Korea's scenic East Coast highway), we heard that the 2026 10th Yeongildae Sand Festival was taking place, so we decided to stop by and check it out before dinner.
Even though the weather was quite hot, the quality of the sand sculptures was absolutely incredible. If you’ve ever tried building a simple sandcastle on the beach with your kids, you’ll know—these sculptures are beyond imagination! If you get the chance, I highly recommend checking it out.
Coincidentally, we arrived on opening day, so the Mayor of Pohang and several National Assembly members were there to celebrate!
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Arriving at Yeongildae Beach & Live Street Music
After parking at the public parking lot, we walked toward the beach. The sun hadn't set yet, and although it was warm, a refreshing coastal breeze was blowing across Yeongildae Beach.
Along the walkway, there were lots of street musicians (buskers) performing. While it might not be as massive as Haeundae Beach in Busan, I actually think it’s a fantastic spot if you prefer a less crowded, more relaxed vibe. There is plenty of live music to enjoy as you walk by!
Across the water, you can see the Pohang National Industrial Complex. There were various performances and groups, including singers from Huinnyeoul Friends and the Korea New Life Welfare Foundation. (Cheering for POSCO / Pohang Steelworks!) And of course, the kids' absolute favorite—Teenieping—made an appearance too!
🎉 Into the Festive Atmosphere! (A Surprise Visit from the Mayor)
We were lucky enough to arrive right as the opening ceremony was underway! 🎤 Pohang Mayor Lee Kang-deok was giving a congratulatory speech, which made the event atmosphere even more lively and exciting. The kids were fascinated to see the mayor in person!
🧚♀️ Fairytale Characters Brought to Life in Sand
It was well worth braving the heat! The beach was filled with sculptures so intricate and magnificent that it was hard to believe they were made entirely of sand. Not only the kids, but I was completely mesmerized too! 😍
🎶 Romantic Street Music Echoing Across the Beach
Various busking performances were happening all around the venue. Pausing between the sand sculptures to listen to the live music added such a romantic, peaceful vibe to our trip.
📸 Making Special Memories with the Kids
Despite the hot weather, I was so grateful that the kids stayed energetic and enjoyed the whole experience without getting tired. We took plenty of wonderful photos at the photo zones set up around the beach!
🌃 A Stunning Night View of the Industrial Skyline
(Insert Photo: Yeongildae Beach Night View 1)
(Insert Photo: Yeongildae Beach Night View 2)
While the beach is beautiful by day, Yeongildae’s true charm comes alive at night. As the sun began to set, the lights across the water at the Pohang National Industrial Complex turned on one by one, creating a magical atmosphere completely different from the daytime.
Lights also illuminated the sand sculptures, making the fairytale world glow mysteriously under the night sky. Enjoying a sand art festival against the backdrop of a glittering industrial skyline is a truly unique experience you can only get in Pohang.
✨ The Perfect Stop Along Route 7: Yeongildae Beach
Our trip to Yeongildae Beach in Pohang was the perfect afternoon—admiring incredible sand art with the kids, enjoying live street music, and taking in the gorgeous night view. Even though it was hot, it left us with refreshing, unforgettable memories.
If you are taking a road trip along Route 7, I strongly recommend stopping by Yeongildae Beach to experience this special moment for yourself! 👍
📌 Pohang Yeongildae Sand Festival – Travel Tips!
- Festival Period: Held annually during the summer season. Be sure to check the exact dates before your visit!
- What to Bring: To beat the summer heat, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and ice-cold water are essential!
- Best Time to Visit: I highly recommend visiting around sunset so you can experience both the daytime charm of the sculptures and the stunning nighttime illuminations.
Definitely worth a visit—highly recommended!
